Ever wondered why we have our fantastic therapy dogs, Frank, and Rosie?
Therapy dogs have been gaining popularity in various settings, providing emotional support and comfort to individuals in need. In a school setting, such as St Eddie’s, having therapy dogs working with the counsellor can provide numerous benefits for the boys. Our dogs are Rosie – a seven-year-old Australian Koolie, and Frank – a two-year-old Golden Retriever x Kelpie. Rosie was the first dog introduced into a Catholic primary school in Canberra, back in 2018, when she began working at Holy Spirit Primary School, and Frank started working in schools as a young pup. Both dogs have been assessed regarding their temperament and suitability to work with children and young people and love their days coming to St Eddie’s as much as the boys love having them here.
Therapy dogs have been shown to have a calming effect on individuals. For boys who may be dealing with stress, anxiety, or other emotional issues, having a therapy dog present during counselling sessions can help to create a sense of calm and relaxation. The presence of a furry friend can help to reduce feelings of tension and create a more comfortable, and safe environment for the boys to open up and discuss their feelings.
In addition to providing emotional support, therapy dogs can also help to improve social skills and communication. Boys may find it easier to interact with a dog than with an adult or their peers, which can help to break down barriers and facilitate more open and honest communication. This can be particularly beneficial for boys who may struggle with expressing their emotions or have difficulty forming connections with others.
Therapy dogs can also help to reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness. Boys who may be struggling with feelings of loneliness or social isolation can benefit greatly from the companionship of the therapy dogs. The unconditional love and acceptance that a dog provides can help to boost self-esteem and create a sense of belonging for students who may be feeling disconnected from their peers.
In addition to the emotional benefits, therapy dogs can also have a positive impact on physical health. Interacting with a therapy dog can help to lower blood pressure, reduce heart rate, and decrease levels of cortisol, a stress hormone. This can lead to improved overall health and well-being for students who may be dealing with chronic stress or anxiety.
Having therapy dogs at St Eddie’s also helps to create a more positive and supportive school environment. The presence of Rosie and Frank within the school, adds to our sense of community and fosters our culture of empathy and compassion. This can lead to improved relationships and a greater sense of connectedness within the school community.
Overall, the benefits of having Rosie and Frank working with Ms Harrison are numerous. From providing emotional support and comfort, to improving social skills and communication, they can play a valuable role in supporting the mental health and well-being of our boys.
Sharon Harrison-
College Counsellor
Rosie and Frank School Photo 2022 flipped
